Name your skin imperfection and chances are VBeam can improve it. A birthmark? Redness? Rosacea? None of these is a match for VBeam’s pulse dye laser’s ability to even out skin complexions.

What is VBeam?

VBeam zaps bursts of light at the skin so imperfections like visible blood vessels and capillaries are heated evenly in microbursts. The result is firmer skin and a more clear complexion.

How Does the VBeam Work?

The VBeams intense light pulse destroys targeted blood vessels, but it does not damage the surrounding skin and tissue. The heated blood vessels then coagulate. Your body absorbs them during the healing process. It’s the gold standard for vascular related skin issues like port wine stains, cherry anglomas (red freckles), rosacea, and spider veins.

What Non-Vascular Issues Does it Treat?

VBeam is effective for more than vascular skin issues. It also treats common skin complaints that include:

• Freckles
• Age spots
• Raised scars
• Wrinkles
• Stretch marks

VBeam Can be Used Anywhere

It’s possible to use VBeam anywhere on the face, and even on the body. This includes the neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.

How to Prepare For VBeam

It’s vital to avoid tanning and excess sun exposure in the weeks leading up to your VBeam treatment. On the day of your treatment, your dermatologist will give you a pair of goggles to wear during the procedure to protect your eyes from the VBeam. You’ll be in a comfortable, reclined position and the procedure will take fewer than 20 minutes.

What Does VBeam Feel Like?

Patients describe the feel of VBeam device many ways. Some say it feels like a rubber band snapping on their skin, others describe it as tingling, irritation, or zaps. The good news is that you get a puff of cold air from the device before each zap, which helps cool your skin.

After VBeam

Following VBeam treatment, your skin will feel like it has a mild sunburn. You are likely to experience post-procedure swelling for up to five days afterward. Minor bruising is possible, but rare.

How to Care For Your Post-Procedure Skin

It’s vital to take especially-good care of your skin in the first two weeks after your VBeam treatment. Apply and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) about a quarter of an hour before going out in the sun. Remember to reapply it every two hours because sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Use gentle, non-comedogenic skin care products. Also, avoid:

• Excess heat
• Saunas
• Hot tubs
• Jacuzzis
• Toners
• Scrubs
• Bleaching creams
• Glycolic acid
• Retinoids

What’s The Cost of VBeam?

One VBeam treatment costs between $400 – $800. It can take up to five treatments to get your desired results. It’s a financial investment that can pay dividends later on in increased self-confidence. Plus, who can put a price on feeling good in your skin?

The VBeam laser’s ability to zap redness makes it one of the best lasers available for vascular related skin issues. Preparing for a treatment is as simple as avoiding tanning in the weeks leading up to your procedure. The actual treatment is over in 20 minutes. Two weeks of post-procedure care involve avoiding excess heat and harsh skin care products. If you think VBeam is right for you, contact your dermatologist for a consultation and start feeling better in your skin.

Lipoma on the back of the neck, lipoma on the chest, and scalp lipoma are conditions that millions of people live with worldwide. In fact, about 1 out of every 1000 people will end up with a lipoma bump sometime in their life.

What is Lipoma? 

Lipoma is a benign fatty lump under the skin. It’s technically called a benign tumor—but don’t let this worry you because lipoma is usually harmless.

What About The Bump?

The bump is easily movable and about two inches wide or less. Some lipomas can grow to giant size, but this is extremely rare. As for the people who do develop a lipoma lump, it’s an easy fix for a dermatologist.

How is Lipoma Treated?

Lipomas are mostly painless and harmless. So, it’s usually not medically necessary to remove it. But if it bothers you cosmetically, there are several options to help you get rid of it. These include creating a small cut to remove it surgically, drawing the fat out through liposuction, or using steroids to shrink the bump.  

What Age Group Gets Lipoma Most?

Most people who develop a lipoma bump are in their fourth, fifth, and sixth decade of life (between 40-60 years old). Although lipoma is more common in the older population, it’s possible to grow one at any age.

What Causes Lipoma?

Experts don’t fully understand the cause of lipoma, though they think it runs in families. Some conditions increase your risk of developing lipoma. These include Cowden Syndrome, Gardner’s Syndrome, adiposis dolorosa, and Madelung’s disease.

Where Do Lipomas Grow?

Lipomas can develop on different body parts. This includes lipoma on the back of the neck, lipoma on the chest, and scalp lipoma. Lipoma is common on the shoulders, arms, and thighs.

What Are The Different Types Of Lipoma? 

There are more than half a dozen different types of lipoma. They’re characterized by the fat, blood, tissue, and nerve cells within them. These include:

• Conventional lipoma: contains white fat.
• Hibernoma: contains brown fat.
• Angiolipoma: contains many blood vessels.
• Myelolipoma: has fat that makes blood cells.
• Fibrolipoma: has fat and fibrous tissues.
• Spindle cell lipoma: has fat with rod-shaped cells.
• Pleomorphic lipoma: fat cells of various sizes and shapes.
• Atypical lipoma: contains deeper fat with a larger number of cells.

How is Lipoma Diagnosed?

Lipoma is usually diagnosed with a physical exam. But sometimes, especially if cancer is suspected, your dermatologist can order tests that include:

• A biopsy tissue sample for lab testing.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan

Liposarcoma vs Lipoma

It’s essential to see your dermatologist if you have a bump. Although lipoma is primarily harmless, your doctor needs to assess the lump to make sure it’s not liposarcoma, which is a more aggressive tumor that’s cancerous. Liposarcoma is a fatty tumor. It grows quickly and is often painful. It’s also rigid and harder to move than lipoma.  

If You Think You Have Lipoma

A diagnosis is the first step toward treatment and recovery from lipoma. If you have a bump that you think could be a lipoma, schedule an appointment today with one of our friendly dermatologists to assess and diagnose the lump. You’ll work together to decide if you’re more comfortable leaving it alone or if you’d like your dermatologist to remove it.

Lipoma is a benign fatty bump under your skin that’s less than two inches wide, easily movable, and mostly painless. However, a lipoma can look like liposarcoma, which is a fatty cancerous tumor. If you find a lump on your body, it’s vital to let your dermatologist evaluate it.

What is a CO2 Laser?

A CO2 laser is a skin resurfacing treatment that zaps beams of light at your skin to injure it—and eventually—improve its appearance.

What Makes The CO2 Laser So Special?

The Co2 (carbon dioxide) laser is one of the most powerful lasers available for skin resurfacing. It’s an ablative laser, which means it causes controlled micro-injuries to your skin. This stimulates collagen production, and your skin heals better than before. It also removes the outer layers of skin to reveal a fresher complexion.

Can a CO2 Laser Address All Skin Problems?

This versatile laser can treat all kinds of skin complaints and is especially effective in improving the appearance of acne scars. The CO2 laser can improve over a dozen skin concerns, caused mainly by aging and the sun. They include:

• Liver spots
• Freckles
• Wrinkles
• Fine lines
• Scarring
• Skin laxity
• Uneven coloration
• Thinned collagen layer
• Dulled tone
• Texture irregularities

Before CO2 Laser Therapy

It’s essential to go into treatment with skin that has not recently undergone microdermabrasion, a chemical peel, or tanning. You can prepare for CO2 laser therapy by avoiding direct sunlight in the weeks leading up to your treatment. Daily facial sunscreen is an important step to prepare for your CO2 laser treatment.

What Happens During Laser Therapy?

On the day of your treatment, you can expect your doctor to apply the numbing gel onto your skin to make the procedure more comfortable for you. The treatment itself can be uncomfortable (even with the numbing gel), so feel free to ask your doctor for a short break if you need it. Treatment usually takes about an hour or less.

How Long Does it Take to Heal?

It takes about 10 days to heal from a CO2 laser treatment, so plan to take some time off afterward to recover. You can expect your skin to be red and tender, and a bit swollen. Other side effects can include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is the darkening of the treated skin. That’s why people with deep skin tones are generally not good candidates for Co2 laser treatment and should ask their dermatologist about other options.  

Dark Skin Tones Not Compatible With CO2 Laser

The best candidates for CO2 laser have light skin and are Fitzpatrick Skin Types I or II. This means they tan poorly and burn quickly in the sun. (Fitzpatrick Skin Types with more pigmentation might have a better result with a different type of laser). These skin types include:

• Darker white skin that tans after the initial burn
• Light brown skin that burns minimally and tans easily
• Brown skin that rarely burns and tans darkly easily
• Dark brown or black skin that never burns and always tans darkly

Choosing The Right Doctor for Your CO2 laser?

It’s essential to choose the right person to perform your CO2 laser procedure. Going with the cheapest option is not recommended. And an establishment that is offering a deep discount can often be a red flag that the person performing the procedure is not highly qualified. It’s best to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist trained to give you the best results and avoid the possible side effects.

If a CO2 laser sounds like a good option for your skin type, reach out today to schedule an appointment with one of our Skin and Cancer Institute dermatologists.

We’re big fans of dermatologists here at the Skin and Cancer Institute for all the helpful things they do for their patients. From A-Z (acne to zits) to everything in between, a dermatologist keeps their patient’s largest organ—their skin—healthy.

What’s a Dermatologist? 

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who’s specially trained to care for your skin. They take this responsibility seriously because the skin is your body’s first line of defense against the outside world and protects you from viruses, bacteria, and infection. Plus, it regulates your body temperature and cools you down when you become too hot. So, it makes sense that this important organ would have a doctor dedicated to keeping it healthy.

What Does a Dermatologist Do?

A dermatologist can diagnose and treat skin conditions as well as perform surgery. They also treat conditions that affect the hair, nails, and mucous membranes (the delicate tissue that lines your eyelids, nose, and mouth). Some dermatologists are trained to provide patients with cosmetic procedures like botox, fillers, and laser skin treatments.

What Can They Diagnose?

A dermatologist is trained to diagnose more than 3,000 skin conditions. Some are mild, while others can seriously affect your health. Acne and skin rashes and lesions are the most common conditions dermatologists diagnose. Other common conditions that dermatologists diagnose include skin cancer, hair loss, and nail problems.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Dermatologist?

It takes twelve years of study and practice to become a dermatologist. This starts with a bachelor’s degree and culminates in at least 12,000 hours spent treating patients in a residency program while working alongside experienced doctors. A dermatologist’s education breaks down like this:

• 4 years of college to earn a bachelor’s degree
• 4 years of medical school to earn a medical degree
• 1-year internship
• 3 years of a dermatology residency program

What Is a Board-Certified Dermatologist?

A dermatologist can become board-certified after completing a residency program and passing a challenging exam that tests their knowledge and skills. In addition, they’ve made a commitment to keep up with the latest dermatology advances. Look for the letters FAAD next to your dermatologist’s name. This means your dermatologist:

• Is board-certified
• Is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology
• Has rigorous education and training
• Keeps up with medical advances

Dermatologist Salary

Because of the high level of specialization and education, a dermatologist’s salary starts high and grows over the years. The average base salary for a dermatologist, according to Salary.com, is $356,000. This can vary by person and location, with higher wages concentrated in dense urban areas, especially along the coasts.

We’re big fans of dermatologists for keeping their patients’ largest organ healthy. From acne to skin cancer, a dermatologist can diagnose and treat more than 3,000 skin conditions. Preventative care is important so we recommend an annual skin checkup. Wondering what a dermatologist can do for you? Schedule your appointment today and come get your skin checked out.

Have you ever had the experience of getting your necklace or shirt collar caught on a pesky skin tag? If so, you’re probably wondering how to remove skin tags. Skin tags are common–up to half of all adults will develop at least one at some point in their life.

What Are Skin Tags?

Tags are harmless skin growths that are filled with collagen and blood vessels. They are only about the size of a pen’s pointy end or about 2-5 mm. They hang off the skin from a thin connection point called a stalk.

What Do Skin Tags Look Like?

Skin tags are often found at friction points along the body inside skin folds like:

• Under the arms
• Under the breasts
• Around the neck
• The eyelids

What Causes Skin Tags

We don’t know what causes skin tags. But we do know that some people are more likely than others to get them. They’re most common in people with skin folds who are obese or diabetic. They are also most common between ages 40-70, although they affect people of all ages and sizes.  

Should I Be Concerned?

Skin tags are pesky but benign growths. They pose no health risk. Many people who have skin tags are not bothered by them. If they are bothersome to you, there is good news: they are one of the most manageable skin conditions to treat.

Are They Uncomfortable?

Some people experience discomfort when the tags get irritated from repeated rubbing against the skin and clothing. Others complain that they get caught on their clothes or necklaces. And some people find them unsightly.

How To Get Rid Of Skin Tags

If your skin tag is getting twisted or bleeding, it’s time to see your dermatologist. The same goes for cosmetic reasons. If you don’t like the way it looks, you can get it removed. This is an anesthesia-free procedure.

Can You Cut Off A Skin Tag?

Skin tags are not harmful, so removal is possible but optional. It’s good to know that most insurance companies consider skin tags a cosmetic issue and will not cover removal. If you decide to proceed, your dermatologist has several removal options that include:

• Cryotherapy liquid nitrogen is sprayed onto the skin tag, which makes it freeze and fall off.
• Cutting the skin tag is removed with surgical scissors.
• Cauterization low-level electrical current heats and removes the tag.  

What To Expect

After skin tag removal, you can expect to feel a little bit sore in the area that was worked on. It helps to apply a topical pain relief ointment like Neosporin. Aftercare for skin tag removal consists of keeping the site clean and regularly applying an antibiotic ointment to keep infection away.

Don’t Try To DIY

Trying to cut off your own skin tag can lead to bleeding and infection. It’s best to let a professional handle it. The same goes for home remedies. There’s plenty of information out there about how to remove skin tags at home with things like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar. This is not optimal and can lead to other issues like irritation and even skin ulcers.

Moles Versus Skin Tags

Skin tags are usually your skin color, although they can become more pigmented over time with repeated rubbing. Moles, on the other hand, are generally darker than your skin color. Both types of growth are harmless, although you might want them removed for cosmetic or comfort reasons.

If skin tags are bothering you, reach out to one of our board-certified dermatologists today for a consultation. They’ll be able to remove them safely and comfortably for you.

Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral skin infection. It causes bumps to form that are round, firm, and painless. These bumps can be as small as a pinhead when they start or as large as a pencil eraser as they grow over several weeks. They have a pit or dimple in the middle and are smooth and pearly.

Fact 1: Molluscum is Contagious

You may have guessed from the name that Molluscum Contagiosum is contagious and spreads by physical contact with infected people and objects.

Fact 2: Adults Can Get Infected

Adults are at risk of getting this skin infection through physical or sexual contact with an infected person. It’s not clear from research whether the bump has to be broken or can be intact to spread, so you should avoid both. Adults with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to molluscum and should see a dermatologist for immediate treatment if they become infected.

Fact 3: Children Can Get It, Too

Children are the most likely age group to get this viral skin infection. They can pick up the virus when they contact infected things or people, especially at daycare centers, public pools, and play areas.  

Fact 4: Molluscum Can Spread All Over

This viral infection can start on one part of the body and spread all over. That’s why dermatologists recommend you consistently cover up the bumps with bandages and clothes to contain the infection. Also, consider letting your body and face hair grow out, as shaving can also spread the infection.

Fact 5: It’ll Eventually Go Away On Its Own

You might be wondering how to get rid of molluscum contagiosum fast. Luckily, this skin infection will eventually clear up on its own within one year. Each bump takes 2-3 months to clear. But new bumps can form after old ones clear up, which is why it can take up to a year to resolve. Once clear, the infection is gone and does not lie dormant in the body. However, recovery from a molluscum infection does not offer immunity. That means that it’s possible to get it again if you come in contact with the virus.

Fact 6: It Doesn’t Hurt 

Molluscum doesn’t hurt, but it can itch. Also, expect some redness, soreness, and swelling. This itchiness can be especially challenging for young children. Covering the sores is helpful, so the infection doesn’t spread by scratching and picking at them.

Molluscum Contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a virus. Its bumps are round, firm, and painless, with a pit or dimple in the center. The bumps start as small as a pinhead and grow over several weeks. They can reach the size of a pencil eraser. Molluscum is contagious, and both adults and children can become infected. It can spread all over the body, so it needs to be covered with bandages and clothing to prevent this. Molluscum contagiosum will eventually go away on its own.

If you or someone you know may have this viral skin infection, schedule an appointment today with one of our dermatologists for a check-up.

Take microneedling and add platelet-rich plasma, and you have a winning combination for healing. The two treatments work synergistically to improve your skin. First, microneedling injures your skin. Then platelet-rich plasma heals it. Confused about why you would damage your skin to improve it? Read on for the whole story.

What Does Microneedling Do?

Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure—the goal is to make your skin look better than before. It is also known as collagen induction therapy. Your dermatologist starts by numbing your skin with a topical cream. Then they glide a handheld microneedling pen or a roller across the skin. The thin needles cause micro-injuries along the way and open up tiny channels to receive the platelets that will help it heal.   

What’s Platelet-Rich Plasma

The platelets come from your own body—your dermatologist is trained to draw a small amount of blood from your arm. This is placed inside a machine that spins to separate out the valuable platelets.

The Benefits Of Microneedling With PRP

These platelets are filled with injury-healing properties. Applying it to the freshly pierced skin allows your body’s own resources (platelets) to heal the injury and make it better than it was before. The three main benefits of microneedling with PRP therapy include:

• Improved acne scars
• Reduced wrinkles
• Reduced hyperpigmentation

Microneedling With PRP Before And After

The microneedling stimulates your body to produce new collagen and elastin proteins. These help you look younger. Plus, they fade acne scars, plump wrinkles, and even out your skin tone.

AKA “The Vampire Facial”

Microneedling with PRP is also known as the vampire facial. This is because of the blood that’s involved. Yes, your skin can bleed a tiny bit from the microneedling. And, of course, the PRP that’s applied topically is red. The vampire facial became famous when celebrities like Kim Kardashian posted pictures of it on their social media accounts. Plenty of people have since wanted to benefit from the one-two punch this powerful treatment provides.

How Long Does The Treatment Take?

The time it takes to complete your microneedling with the PRP procedure depends. Some people will treat their entire face, while others will only treat a targeted area that really needs it. But in general, the procedure takes about 20 minutes, give or take.

When Will I See Results?

For most people, the results from microneedling with PRP are dramatic after 4-6 treatments spaced about one month apart. But It depends on the severity of the acne scarring or wrinkling. Some people get their desired result after three treatments; others need closer to six treatments to see the improvement they want.

Can I Do Microneedling” Without” PRP?

Yes, it is possible to do microneedling without PRP. Microneedling alone is effective in reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. But when it comes to reducing the appearance of acne, a 2016 study shows the benefits of adding PRP therapy. The study said it can be combined with microneedling to enhance the final clinical outcomes. This is in comparison with microneedling alone.

Take microneedling and add platelet-rich plasma, and you have a winning combination. Celebrities and regular people alike benefit from the one-two punch this synergistic treatment provides. Want to give it a try? Reach out today for an appointment with one of our dermatologists.

Imagine the convenience of having your prescription in hand as soon as you finish your dermatology appointment. And envision how supported you’ll feel by a pharmacy technician who understands your dermatology prescription and can advocate for you with insurance. Just think how much money and time you’ll save. This convenience is now yours. That’s because the Skin and Cancer Institute has worked hard to open an on-site pharmacy at most of its locations.

We spoke with our own Dr. Raza Mehdi about this new offering for Skin and Cancer Institute patients. He said he’s excited about this higher level of dermatological care. He also shared his perspective on how an on-site pharmacy can benefit you. Here’s what he had to say.

Question: How are on-site pharmacies different from traditional pharmacies?

Answer: Our on-site pharmacies are different from traditional pharmacies because our dermatology specialty medications are more complex. They might not be available from your local pharmacy or may require additional monitoring to provide the full benefit of their treatment. We are here to help ensure our patients get effective and safe outcomes and access to medications.

Question: What can your team provide education on?

Answer: Our team can provide education on your medication: how to take it; side effects, and drug interactions

Question: Can your team help with financial concerns?

Answer: Yes, our team can monitor prices and manufacturer rebates to apply to patient’s prescriptions.

Question: What about refills?

Answer: We will contact you when it is time for a refill and follow up on your treatment. We offer free Next Day shipping for refills, or you may pick your medication up at the pharmacy.

Question: What will the wait time be like?

Answer: We offer a minimal wait time. Prescriptions are ready by the time the patient checks out and is ready to leave the office.

Question: What can you do to help with prior authorizations?

Answer: The pharmacy can communicate directly with the dermatologist to prescribe medications that can reduce prior authorizations and expedite the medication to the patient.

Question: How can you help with insurance?

Answer: If a patient’s insurance denies the prescription, our pharmacy tech can speak directly with the dermatologist for other possible options while in-office. We reduce prior authorization requests using a more thorough understanding of dermatology medications and the patient’s different payment options.

Question: Do you coordinate with my primary care physician?

Answer: We will work directly with your primary care physician or specialist to resolve any problems with your medication.

Question: Do you offer an on-site pharmacy at each location?

Answer: We currently offer an on-site pharmacy at most of our Skin and Cancer Institute offices. We are working diligently to offer them at each location in the near future.

Come experience the new Skin and Cancer Institute pharmacies located inside our dermatology office. It’s the ultimate convenience and makes getting your medication easy from beginning to end. Our priority is helping patients like you live better. That’s why we offer convenient ways for patients to manage their dermatological concerns.

Ready to begin your journey to better health? Book your appointment now to start improving your skin today!

One of the most potent skin vitamins you’ve probably never heard of is called niacinamide. It’s a form of vitamin B-3 that’s loaded with benefits for your skin. It can make your skin stronger and look better. Plus, it can treat various skin conditions, including acne and hyperpigmentation. But these are just two out of ten things niacinamide can do for you. Read on for a full list of skin benefits.

Niacinamide Benefits

• Less oil production — regulates the amount of oil produced by sebaceous glands.
• Improves skin barrier — it can help create a lipid barrier that keeps skin moist.
• Builds skin proteins — niacinamide builds keratin, which keeps your skin healthy.
• Minimized wrinkles — a 5% niacinamide concentration reduces fine lines over time.
• Treats hyperpigmentation — it can lighten dark spots.
• Limits acne — reduces inflammation and lesions over time.  
• Reduces redness — reduced inflammation leads to fewer red blotches.
• Protects against sun damage — protects from damage from ultraviolet rays.
• Shrinks pores — smooth, moisturized skin limits the appearance of large pores.
• Builds skin cells — niacinamide helps build some types of skin proteins.

What is Niacinamide?

It is a form of vitamin B-3 that is water-soluble and needs to be replenished within your body. It’s a crucial skin-beautifying vitamin. It’s also essential for basic skin health as Vitamin B-3 deficiency can lead to skin disorders.

What Foods Contain Niacinamide?

You can eat your way to better skin health. Try to eat foods like green vegetables, beans, meat, fish, milk, eggs, yeast, and cereal grains—all of which are loaded with niacinamide. It’s also found in numerous supplements, sometimes under the name nicotinamide.

Foods Are Better Than Supplements

Experts say the safest and best way to increase this vitamin in your diet is through foods. Niacinamide supplements can have side effects. That’s why they require your doctor’s approval and may not be safe for pregnant or nursing mothers. So just the simple act of eating more niacinamide-rich foods should be enough to boost your skin health. You can also try adding topical niacinamide to your daily skin care routine.

Niacinamide Serum

Serums are the primary delivery vehicle for topical niacinamide. There are various quality serums on the market that you can easily add to your skin care routine. The most effective serums contain at least 5% niacinamide.

The Niacinamide Skin Care Routine

Adding a topical niacinamide serum to your daily routine is easy. First, wash your face. Follow this with a niacinamide serum. Then moisturize. And last but not least, make sure to end your morning skincare routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with 30 SPF or more.

How Soon Can I Expect Better Skin?

Studies show it can take up to eight weeks to see niacinamide benefits. Just keep eating niacinamide-rich foods and using your serum once or twice a day, and the benefits will follow.

Niacin Vs. Niacinamide

These two vitamins are different yet similar. Niacin and niacinamide are the two forms of Vitamin B-3. Your body can take in niacinamide directly from food. It can also produce it from excess niacin.

Niacinamide Acne

Severe acne—especially pustules and papules—can get better with niacinamide intake. This includes both oral and topical niacinamide. It’s known to improve skin texture over time. Niacinamide boosts the skin’s ceramides to reduce water loss. It also can reduce the skin’s inflammatory response and lead to fewer pimples overall. In addition, it slows sebum (oil) production and reduces acne bacteria.

Summary

Niacinamide is a potent vitamin. It’s loaded with benefits for your skin—it can make it stronger and treat various skin conditions like acne and hyperpigmentation. If you’d like to learn more about what this vitamin can do for your skin, schedule an appointment today with one of our dermatologists. They’d be happy to recommend products to help you develop a niacinamide skin care routine.

You might have areas of unwanted fat that remain despite your best diet and exercise efforts. If this describes you, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to slim those areas. Coolsculpting could be the answer. If you’re close to your ideal BMI (body mass index), Coolsculpting could help you reveal more muscle and slightly alter your shape.

What is Coolsculpting?

Coolsculpting is the brand name for a process called cryolipolysis—a fancy word for fat freezing. Scientists studying the process of frostbite realized that fat cells freeze at a different temperature than surrounding cells. So, during Coolsculpting, fat cells are frozen and killed, but the surrounding tissue and skin cells are left unharmed.

How Does Coolsculpting Work?

Coolsculpting is a non-invasive procedure. That means no anesthesia, no needles, and zero downtime. Coolsculpting attachments are placed on the targeted area for about 30 minutes to one hour. You may feel a tingling feeling; however, it is not painful.

What Happens to the Fat After It Freezes

The frozen fat cells die, and your immune system slowly eliminates them over time. It can take up to a few weeks to notice a difference and up to several months to see the full results of Coolsculpting.

How Many Coolsculpting Sessions Will I Need

Most people need at least 3-4 sessions of Coolsculpting before they see their desired results. Expect up to a 25 percent reduction in fat cells in the treated area.

Coolsculpting Before and After

For an excellent example of a realistic result, imagine someone at their ideal weight who still has a little bit of a stomach fat layer protruding. Coolsculpting could make their abdomen flat after several sessions. If someone already has a flat stomach, several sessions of Coolsculpting could reveal their abdominal muscle definition.

Coolsculpting Results

Keep in mind that this process works best for thin people simply trying to tighten up a body part that holds onto stubborn fat, like on their stomach or arms. Results are subtle. If your BMI is high, you’ll get more dramatic results with a procedure like liposuction.

Actors and Models

There’s a reason actors and models get Coolsculpting to give themselves that extra edge before an important shoot or event. Most of them are already in great shape and just need that little extra amount of fat removed to really make them look and feel fabulous.

Is Coolsculpting Right For You?

Coolsculpting absolutely could be right for you if your BMI is normal and you just have a small area of fat you’d like to reduce. Many everyday people have benefited from the slimming effects of Coolsculpting. The important thing to remember is that Coolsculpting is most effective for small areas of stubborn fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It is not a weight-loss procedure.

How Much Does Coolsculpting Cost?

Costs vary depending on where you live and who does your procedure. Also, smaller areas are cheaper to treat than more extensive areas. In general, Coolsculpting costs between $2,000-$4,000, depending on your individualized treatment plan.

Coolsculpting Can Be Used On Body Parts Including:

• The fat bulge in the bra area
• Fat bulge under the buttocks
• Under Chin
• Upper Arms
• Stomach
• Back and Sides
• Thighs

If you have areas of unwanted fat that remain despite your best diet and exercise efforts, Coolsculpting might be the answer. If you’re close to your ideal BMI, this non-invasive procedure could help you reveal more muscle and slightly alter your shape.